Mason Head Start Teacher Assistant

Hill Country Community Action Association, Inc. — Head Start Job Description

JOB TITLE: Teacher Assistant (10.5 months)
FLSA STATUS: Non-exempt

REPORTS TO: Teacher/Director or Site Director ASSIGNMENT DATE: _____________

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The Head Start Teacher Assistant is responsible for a group of children or area of activity as assigned, supervising play activities by participating in group games, enforcing safety rules, and intervening when children are likely to injure themselves or others. The Head Start Teacher Assistant will also act as Teacher in the absence of Director/Teacher by learning all aspects of the function of a Head Start Classroom, such as completing all assigned paperwork and reports, supervision of children, and sharing in the implementation of lesson plans.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:

• Develop, write, and conduct a planned lesson at least once a month; more frequently as experience is gained.
• Prepare and conduct at least one center activity each day (e.g., circle time, science, home or other). Additional center activities as needed under guidance of Center Director and/or Classroom Teacher.
• Work closely with the Center Director and Classroom Teacher to maintain a calm classroom conducive to good early childhood learning standards without resorting to physical punishment.
• Ensure childcare routines are prompt, hygienic, and consistent with good child development principles (hand washing, tooth brushing, eating, napping, transitions) through collaboration with Center Director/Teacher.
• Assist children at snack, breakfast, and lunch; uphold family-style meals philosophy; both Teacher Assistant and Teacher seated at the table during mealtime.
• Ensure child safety through constant supervision, proper space arrangement, equipment maintenance, and regular practice of fire drills and emergency procedures.
• Work as a team to maintain curriculum continuity and high standards of equality; work individually with children who have trouble during group activities.
• Document in ½ of the children's files across content areas.
• Complete Individual Development Plans for each enrolled child; continue ongoing assessment with written or computer records.
• Observe, record, and report any child’s behavior; communicate information appropriately with staff.
• Attend all staff meetings and other training as provided.
• After the new hire probationary period (90 days) work toward and obtain a Child Development Associate (CDA) credential.
• Perform any other duties as assigned by the Center Director.

JOB REQUIREMENTS:

ANNUAL PRE-SERVICE TRAINING IS MANDATORY

EDUCATION: Minimum:
High School Diploma or GED.

EXPERIENCE: Some experience and ability to work with pre-school children.

SKILLS AND ABILITIES: Must have a warm, supportive, pleasant, and positive attitude toward young children and parents. Must be reliable. Must be flexible in receiving assignments or adapting to changes in the program. Must be willing to accept supervision to improve work performance.

OTHER: Professional manner and attire. No record of a conviction which would contraindicate employment. Must have a valid Class C driver's license and a reliable vehicle with current liability insurance; insurable under HCCAA's vehicle insurance policy. A Head Start physical screening within 30 days of hire. Must maintain CPR and First Aid certifications. Must comply with all HCCAA Policies and maintain confidentiality and courtesy in all phases of agency operations.

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES: No

EQUIPMENT TO BE USED: Must be able to operate a computer and other office machines such as fax, calculator, copier, and telephone.

TYPICAL PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

Requires interacting with the children on their level (on the floor), and sitting, standing, bending, reaching, and driving. Must be able to lift up to 40 pounds. Requires manual dexterity to operate standard office machines. Normal range of hearing and vision. Must be able to react quickly (run after a child).

TYPICAL MENTAL DEMANDS:

Must be able to analyze classroom operations and choose effective actions. Handle new and diverse work problems daily. Personal maturity, ability to resolve problems,…